English Text of \"A Letter to the Army and People\"

Introduction

On March 5, 280 AD, Zhuge Liang, the Prime Minister of the State of Shu Han during the Three Kingdoms period in China, wrote a letter to his army and the people before heading to battle against the State of Wei. This letter, known as \"A Letter to the Army and People,\" has since become a classic of Chinese literature and a symbol of Zhuge Liang's wisdom and virtue. In this article, we will present the English text of the letter in its entirety.

The Body of the Letter

\"Having carried my humble self to this distant place, I cannot but express the thoughts which fill my breast. On the one hand, I am anxious and fearful lest any failure should attend our enterprise. On the other, I am hopeful that the loyalty and bravery of those who are risking their lives for their country, will suffice to make good any of my own deficiencies.Let me speak plainly. In the present crisis, we are called upon to show forth the truth and loyalty which spring from the principles of a single hearted devotion. It is under ordinary circumstances difficult to go against a strong adversary. How much more so is it when our intelligence is limited, our numbers few, and our physical strength inadequate. Yet the common danger we face forbids our remaining inactive, and we dare not shrink from personal responsibility. It is upon your good judgment and your bravery, soldiers, that we can alone rely. It is upon you, people, that we must depend for provisions and resources.In this hour of grave peril I cannot but remember the ancient legends which tell of Yu facing the floods, of Tang coping with Sanmugua. Those two worthies performed superhuman feats, not for any selfish motives, nor for their own emolument, but solely to safeguard the welfare of their country. Their one aim was to preserve the freedom and independence of the people. Such heroism is most truly the act of a patriot. It is not the mere indulgence of chivalrous impulses, but the fulfilment of an obligation which they owed to the whole human race.\"

Conclusion

In \"A Letter to the Army and People,\" Zhuge Liang emphasizes the importance of loyalty, bravery, and patriotism in times of crisis. He acknowledges the difficulties and challenges his army and the people face, but urges them to look to the examples of ancient Chinese heroes who overcame seemingly insurmountable obstacles for the good of their country. Zhuge Liang's letter has inspired generations of Chinese readers and remains a powerful testament to the enduring values of courage, sacrifice, and national pride.